If there’s one skin care trend that has staked its claim as a staple in the beauty world, it’s Korean beauty, lovingly known as K-Beauty. The phenomenon of sheet masks and “glass skin” gained traction in the States in the 2010s and has been increasing in popularity ever since. Just this past year, K-Beauty has seen a surge in Google searches, largely thanks to social media. Luckily, access to a variety of K-Beauty products in the United States has dramatically increased over the years, too. And not just in skin care, the K-Beauty industry has expanded into makeup and hair.
So why has it become such a cult favorite? And what makes it stand out above the rest? We tapped dermatologists to help highlight the benefits and skin-loving ingredients that K-Beauty has to offer, plus some of the best products to shop right now.
Our top picksBest K-Beauty products
See 5 MoreWhat is Korean beauty?
“K-Beauty includes both skin care and makeup products that originate from South Korea, [and] that emphasize gentle, hydrating, and preventive care using high-quality ingredients,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dara Spearman.
Our experts also call the ingredients “innovative,” which has helped achieve their mainstay status. “One of the reasons these products are so popular is the emphasis that is placed on preservation, prevention and the use of natural ingredients,” says double board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp.
What are the benefits of Korean beauty skin care?
Hydration is the key benefit in K-Beauty skin care, according to Spearman. “The products are designed to be applied in thin, buildable layers to maximize absorption and effectiveness,” says the dermatologist. “This also allows for customization of a routine for individual clients.”
After all, K-Beauty is famous for its 10-step skin care routine, and Camp mentions that the multi-step routines can be seen as another benefit. “Products tend to be more lightweight, so that applying multiple layers on the skin does not clog pores and lead to acne,” he explains. “The number of steps in a Korean skin care regimen also necessitates that products be gentler and less abrasive than Western skin care products.”
What types of ingredients are in Korean beauty skin care?
One of the most popular ingredients used in K-Beauty skin care is none other than snail mucin, according to both dermatologists, which provides benefits in hydration, skin repair and regeneration, as well as collagen production. Below, our experts highlight a few more K-Beauty ingredients worth noting:
Yuza: “A citrus fruit that contains a high concentration of vitamin C. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant that neutralizes free oxygen radicals, which can damage cellular structures like DNA, lipids and proteins,” says Camp.Propolis: When used in skin care, Camp says this waxy substance (made from honeybees) helps keep skin hydrated by locking in moisture and serves as an antioxidant.Cica: Also known as Centella Asiatica, is a natural ingredient “known for soothing and reducing inflammation,” explains Spearman.Birch: Deriving from birch trees, Camp notes this ingredient “delivers nutrients and antioxidants to keep skin healthy and radiant.”
Other ingredients you may be familiar with, and pioneered by Asian beauty, are tea tree, which has anti-inflammatory benefits, and hyaluronic acid, widely known for its hydrating and skin-plumping effects.
If you’re looking to reap the benefits of Korean skin care, we have a curated guide of dermatologist and editor-picked products, including toners, sunscreens, moisturizers and more.
Best Korean beauty, according to experts
A sunscreen formulated for all skin types and leaves a glowy finish.
SPF level: 36 | Size: 1.69 fl oz | Key ingredients: Green tea, sunflower seed oil, cica | Reapplication: Every 2 hours
What we like
No pillingHydratingLightweight
Not only does this daily sunscreen offer broad-spectrum SPF 36 coverage, but Camp says it’s also “formulated with green tea to provide antioxidant protection and sunflower seed oil for improved hydration.”
Uses snail mucin to deeply plump and nourish the skin with moisture.
Size: 3.38 oz | Key Ingredients: Snail Secretion Filtrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arginine
What we like
Brightening and nourishingViral favorite
Snail mucin is one of the most popular K-Beauty ingredients, and Spearman says this essence has “hydrating benefits and helps with reducing dullness, fine lines, and leaves a glowy finish.”
This daily exfoliant contains 7% PHA and hyaluronic acid for gentle exfoliation and hydration.
size: 5.07 oz. | Key ingredients: Green Tea-Derived Enzyme, PHA, Hyaluronic Acid
What we like
HydratingSuitable for most skin types
Spearman also recommends this gentle toner to help even out the skin tone and texture, and for its hydrating benefits. “It is an alcohol-free toner, so it’s more gentle on the skin and is suitable for all skin types,” she notes.
This eye cream is suitable for all skin types and promises to provide lasting moisture.
Size: 0.8 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, caffeine
What we like
Hydrating ingredientsCan layer with makeup
“In addition to caffeine, which constricts superficial blood vessels to lessen the appearance of dark circles, this lightweight, hydrating eye cream is made with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and deep-sea algae to brighten skin and reduce puffiness,” explains Camp, about this eye cream from the viral brand, Laneige.
A balm-to-oil formula that gently removes sunscreen, makeup and excess oil.
Size: 0.71 oz. | Key ingredients: Seaberry oil, vitamin E, persimmon
What we like
Balm turns into an oilRemoves stubborn makeup
Camp says this balm is an “innovative approach to cleansing.” By massaging it into your skin, “this balm melts into an oil” to help remove oil and makeup that leaves skin feeling “refreshed and bright.”
Dermatologists previously recommended this moisturizer for its thicker formula that still feels lightweight upon application.
Size: 1.69 oz. | Key ingredients: Peptide, ceramide, squalane
What we like
Fast absorptionFeels lightweight on skin
Something to note
Some say better for oily skin
Both editor and dermatologist-approved, this moisturizer provides intense moisture for up to 48 hours. Dr. Papri Sarkar previously told Shop TODAY that this cream “sinks into the skin,” and its thicker texture is perfect for dry and cooler weather.
Belief The True Cream Aqua BombCourtesy Shannon Garlin
This luxury, anti-aging eye cream helps promote firmness, targets fine lines and brightens dark circles, per the brand.
Size: 0.5 oz. | Key ingredients: Korean ginseng actives, peptides and flower extract with retinol
What we like
Suitable for all skint typesFormulated with retinol
While this may be a splurge, Camp notes this anti-aging luxe eye cream is packed with Korean ginseng actives “to address crow’s feet, bags, and dark circles.”
Best Korean beauty skin care to shop
This affordable sheet mask comes in a variety of types to suit different skin concerns.
Quantity: 1 sheet | Types: 18: Avocado, aloe, rice, tea tree, coffee, lavender and more
Something to note
Can get messyExcess product
I [Garlin] became obsessed with this Korean beauty brand and its masks after visiting the Tony Moly store on a trip to Seoul. The brand offers a variety of sheet masks, each to target a different concern. I love the ones for dry skin, especially the avocado one. It’s super hydrating, and you see instant results of moisture and plumpness.
This sunscreen stick has matte finish and can be worn under makeup.
Size: 0.67 oz. | Key ingredients: Cica, panthenol, tocopherol
What we like
Glides on smoothlyMess-free stick form
“As soon as I put this on my skin, I knew it was game over for a lot of my other sunscreen sticks, says commerce editor Vivien Moon. “It glides on like butter and feels like it’s not there.”
The brand notes that this sunscreen can double as a makeup primer, too.
This face washing contains heartleaf powder, which provides gentle exfoliation.
Size: 5.07 oz. | Key ingredients: Quercetinol, anti-sebum P
What we like
A little goes a long wayEffective against blackheads
Something to note
May irritate sensitive skin
Deputy editorial manager Jess Bender says while this cleanser acts as a scrub, the heartleaf powder grains are gentle and haven’t caused her irritation. “It’s also satisfying when the cleanser turns sudsy when it gets into contact with water; it makes me feel like it’s really working overtime, cleansing the inner workings of my pores,” she adds.
The brand says this balm is an all-in-one beauty product; it can be used as an essence, serum, cream and moisturizer.
Size: 0.33 oz. | Key ingredients: Vegan PDRN, collagen, ceramide NP
What we like
Travel-friendly packagingGlides on easilyNon-sticky
“I have a couple of trouble areas when it comes to dry skin that develops during the day (most prominently around my nose and chin and on my elbows), so it’s nice to have a mini balm that fits into my pocket to treat these areas while I’m on the move,” says Bender about another K-Beauty favorite.
A two-step sheet mask that cools, locks in moisture and more.
Amount: 1 mask, 1 serum | Key ingredients: Vitamin C
What we like
Cooling effectsFlexible fitAdded serum for extra benefits
This was the first time I [Garlin] tried a two-step sheet mask and found it to be incredibly moisturizing. You add the serum first, then place the sheet masks on as usual, and it seals and sets into your skin. After 30 minutes, my face looked glowy and radiant.
This clay mask is in a mess-free stick form that calms skin, minimizes pores and soaks up excess oil, per the brand.
Size: 0.95 oz. | Key ingredients: Centella Asiatica Extract, Kaolin, Bentonite, Illite, Montmorillonite
What we like
Stick form; mess-freeSmoothly glides on face
I usually steer clear of clay masks because they can feel drying for me, but this one leaves my skin so soft and hydrated. I love that it comes in stick form, so you don’t have to deal with messy fingers, and it has gentle exfoliation grains that feel nice as you glide the stick across your face — it’s actually fun to apply! It’s one of the few products I’ve used where I actually notice instant and soothing results.
Editor’s pick
This sunscreen has a ‘barely-there texture’ that’s fast-absorbing and can be worn under makeup, says the brand.
Size: 1.69 oz | SPF: 50 | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol
What we like
Lightweight finishAbsorbs quicklyDoesn’t pill under makeup
K-Beauty sunscreen is also known for its lightweight texture and pleasant smell, and Bender wishes this one came in a bigger package. “It feels incredible on my skin. It absorbs really quickly, leaving my skin hydrated but feeling perfectly primed and prepped for the rest of my daytime makeup routine,” says Bender.
This toner only has four ingredients, so you know exactly what’s going on your skin, says the brand. The brand says it helps with inflamed, acne-prone and damaged skin.
Size: 10.4 oz. | Key ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Centella Asiatica Extract
What we like
Promotes collagenCan help heal scars
This toner has minimal ingredients and has become a staple in my [Garlin] skin care regimen. I’m adamant about taking off my makeup, but this toner made me realize how much makeup was still on my skin even. It helps get rid of extra foundation and provides a fresh and fully clean face, without feeling dry.
This toner is designed to help alleviate dark spots and hyperpigmentation as well as strengthen the skin’s barrier.
Size: 8.45 oz | Key Ingredients: Rose PDNR, 5 types of peptide Complex, niacinamide | Targets: Dry, uneven, dull, fatigued skin
What we like
Silky textureSafe for sensitive skin
This recent Shop TODAY Beauty Awards winner for “best overall toner” is packed with ceramides and moisturizing ingredients to improve the skin’s texture and protect the skin barrier.
This color-changing jelly mask is said to strengthen the skin barrier and create a more balanced skin tone.
Award: Most viral sheet face mask | Overall score: 4.83/5 | Key ingredients: Salmon PDRM, collagen, niacinamide
What we like
Next-day resultsDivided half mask
Something to note
Bottom half slides around face
“Immediately after, my skin looked glowing and gorgeous,” wrote one Shop TODAY contributor about this award-winning mask. “This smoothed my face and left it feeling plump, hydrated, and healthy. My face felt snatched and tight, but not dry. It seemed bouncy and radiant, and after wearing the mask for nearly two hours, it hadn’t irritated my sensitive skin.”
Before and after using the Medicube Salmon PDRN Pink Collagen Jelly Gel Mask.Courtesy of Dory Zayas
The brand says this is formulated for oily and combination skin, which will remove excess oil and impurities without stripping natural moisture.
Size: 4.23 | Key ingredients: Hyssop extract, rice powder, bentonite clay
What we like
Gentle on skinRich texture
Something to note
Subtle, but appealing scent
“Using this cleanser has really become a self care moment for me,” says deputy managing editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil. “I love the way it smells, the thick, luxurious texture, and the way my skin feels noticeably fresh and clean after. I actually look forward to washing my face just so I can use it.”
A hydrating eye mask to help reduce puffiness and leave skin feeling hydrated.
Amount: 60 patches | Key ingredients: Niacinamide, adenosine, caffeine, vitamin B12
What we like
CoolingBrightening effectGood amount for money
Bender says she wears these eye masks “religiously” during work-from-home days, noting that they feel cooling and leave her under-eye area “immensely brighter” and “overall rejuvenated.”
This cream is packed with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and natural oils to support the skin barrier.
Size: 1.69 | Key ingredients: Polyglutamic Acid, Ceramide, olive oil and macadamia seed oil
What we like
Retains skin moistureHydrating ingredients
“I am really into the thickness of this cream,” says Moon. She says it has a firm texture that quickly melts into the skin and “absorbs beautifully.”
This lip mask will leave your lips feeling soft and rejuvenated.
Flavors: 12 | Size: 0.7 oz | Key ingredients: Vitamin C, coconut oil, shea butter and berry mix complex
What we like
Moisturizing and smoothingNon-sticky
Something to note
In a pot; need to use fingers
Even if you’re new to K-beauty, chances are this viral lip mask has crossed your radar. Associate editor Erica Marrison says it’s her go-to nighttime lip treatment. “It has changed my lip texture over time (they’re much smoother now), and it’s less greasy than Vaseline. I use it nightly and the pot lasts me the year,” says Marrison.
These toner pads are dermatologically tested and have produced clinical results that include 100% of users seeing brighter skin and more even tone after four weeks of use. Use morning and night by swiping all over the skin or leaving on areas of concern for 10 minutes.
Award: Best value exfoliator pads | Overall score: 4.66/5 | Key ingredients: Green tea, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C | Quantity: 60 pads
What we like
Gentle formulaWon’t dry out in packagingBiodegradable
Something to note
Allow 4 weeks min. for results
After two months of using the toner pads, commerce writer Danielle Murphy says she saw a noticeable difference in her skin. “My spots have actually started to fade, revealing a bright complexion I haven’t seen since my late high school, early college days,’ Murphy wrote in a review article.
Before and after using the Innisfree Green Tea Enzyme Vitamin C Brightening Toner Pads.Courtesy Danielle Murphy
This cream-coated mask comes in two pieces for a customized and no-slip fit.
Amount: 5 | Key ingredients: Niacinamide, adenosine, collagen
When Cocchi has time for a face mask, she says she leans on these hydrating sheet masks from the K-beauty brand, TimeSavvy. “These mess-free masks were specifically designed for multitasking; they don’t slide down your face, and the excess product left behind is minimal,” she notes. “I recently put one on while working from home and was able to comfortably work while treating my skin to a pick-me-up.”
Best Korean beauty makeup and hair care to shop
We Love it for: the bold pigmentation.
Shades: 40 | Finish : Matte
What we like
Applies smoothlyVelvety texture
Something to note
Some say flakes on dry lips
This previous Gifts We Love lip tint comes in 40 highly-pigmented shades, offering a shade for every makeup look and preference. Editors and reviewers love it for its rich texture and smooth feel.
The brand calls this tint “kiss-proof” and “smudge-proof.”
Shades: 10 | Key ingredients: vitamin-rich fruit complex
What we like
Buildable formulaHydrating ingredients
Something to note
Some say doesn’t last long
These water tints from the popular Korean beauty brand Etude House offer buildable, hydrating coverage that won’t bleed or smudge onto the skin.
This BB cream offers buildable coverage and SPF 42.
Size: 1.69 oz. | Shades: 7 | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides, botanical essence
One Amazon reviewer calls this the “holy grail” of foundation, with many saying they won’t settle into fine lines. This affordable Korean BB cream is formulated with hydrating ingredients
This viral foundation offers full coverage for a glowy “glass skin” finish.
Shades: 30+ | Key ingredients: Red propolis, astaxanthin, hibiscus extract, sea daffodil, rosa rugosa flower, water lily extract
What we like
Compact packagingWide shade range
“I spontaneously bought this cushion foundation after a late-night social media binge session, and I’m glad to report that this does not disappoint!” says Bender. “This has been such a smart product for on-the-go glam during long-distance travels when I want to look put together after hours of sitting on the Amtrak or a bus. I tend to apply a lighter amount of product since that’s all my skin needs to cover up any red splotches.”
The bonding shampoo is formulated with peptides to strengthen damaged hair, target dandruff and provide hydration.
Size: 6.76 oz. | Key ingredients: Patented Peptide-132
What we like
Gentle on scalpNoticeable improvement
“I tried the shampoo (and conditioner) in the past and did notice how soft it made my hair. I have thin and long hair that tends to get messy if I don’t brush it, so I need to wash it all the time, and this was a great addition to my routine!” says Moon. “I love how it improved the softness and shine of my hair, but also didn’t irritate or cause issues whatsoever.”
A face powder formulated to blur pores, absorb oil and offer skin a smooth finish.
Key ingredients: Mint extract, licorice powder, chamomile water, blue hyaluronic acid
What we like
No-spill silicone meshGood for travel
Something to note
Can’t see powder container
This viral blurring powder has hydrating ingredients and a transparent finish that’s perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, whether you’re blotting oily skin or smoothing makeup.
This solution removes excess sebum, leaving your scalp feeling healthy and clean.
Scent : Lemon verbena | Key Ingredients : Rosemary Oil, Salicylic Acid, Menthol, Niacinamide | Size : 8.4 fl oz
What we like
Works in 10 secondsA little goes a long wayTwist-up nozzle applicator
Something to note
May have a cooling tingle
“The short-term results are reason enough for me to keep using this miracle worker, but over a couple of months of regular applications, I’ve actually noticed that my hair seems to stay cleaner for longer between uses,” wrote production associate Audrey Ekman in a review article.
Dr. Groot Scalp Exfoliating Detox Water before and after applicationCourtesy of Audrey Ekman
This treatment is designed to target hair loss with its moisturizing, exfoliating formula that leads to healthy hair after just one wash, according to the company.
Award: Best hair growth treatment | Overall score: 4.5/5 | Size: 8.4 fl. oz | Key Ingredients: Biotin, rosemary oil, salicylic acid, niacinamide | Hair Type: All | Fragrance: Yes, fresh lemon verbena and herbal scent
What we like
Softens hairGood for sensitive scalpMoisturizing
“Post-application and blow-dry, I could feel a difference immediately. My head felt lighter somehow, but the formula didn’t take away the fullness of my naturally thick hair,” wrote commerce writer Danielle Murphy in a review article. “I also couldn’t stop myself from running my fingers through my hair every few minutes or so because my hair felt so, so soft. Again, this is without any styling products!”
Dr. Groot Miracle in Shower Treatment before and after application.Courtesy of Danielle MurphyMeet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also ensure that all expert guidance and recommendations are provided independently and without any undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.Dr. Dara Spearman is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates.How we chose
We selected the best Korean Beauty products based on insights and recommendations from interviews with board-certified dermatologists. We also include approved picks from Shop TODAY editors and staffers. Other products were sourced through verified shopper reviews.
How do you add Shop TODAY as a Preferred Source on Google?
Google’s new Preferred Sources feature allows users to manually select their favorite publishers and news outlets for a more customizable experience tailored directly to the reader. Once you’ve opted to receive our content, you’ll begin seeing more of our recent and trending articles displayed within your Top Stories news feed.
The easiest way to add us as a preferred source is to click here and type in “TODAY.com.” Once the box is checked and you’ve refreshed the page, Shop TODAY content will start appearing in your feed.